Saudi Moon Observers Prepare to Sight Crescent of Dhul Hijjah at Hotat Sudair

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Moon observers across the Kingdom are preparing to sight the crescent moon marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, the final and most sacred month in the Islamic lunar calendar. The Hotat Sudair Observatory, one of Saudi Arabia’s principal moon sighting locations, will serve as a key site for this important event.

The crescent moon sighting is of special significance, as it determines the timing of Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, and Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, which is celebrated by millions of Muslims around the world.

Saudi authorities, including the Supreme Court, have called on citizens and astronomers to participate in the observation process and report any confirmed sightings of the crescent. The decision based on this sighting will officially announce the start of Dhul Hijjah and set the dates for both Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha.

Hotat Sudair, located north of Riyadh, has historically played a central role in Islamic lunar observations due to its clear skies and strategic geographic location. Religious scholars and astronomers gather at this site each year to observe the moon using telescopes and traditional methods.

As the Kingdom awaits confirmation of the crescent sighting, millions around the world are also watching closely, as it signals the beginning of one of the holiest periods in the Islamic year.